Healthy Rabbit

The early recognition of ill health in the rabbit is most important, for the earlier the treatment the greater is the chance of success. In most cases it is quite useless to commence treatment when the disease has progressed so far that the animalism obviously dying. The full benefit of veterinary advice will not be obtained unless it is obtained early, and the longer sick rabbits remains outside isolation, the greater are the chances of the spread of the disease.

The reasons for slow gain in weight, or loss in weight,or lack of appetite, should be sought. You should quickly note any change in the appearance, habits or feces of your rabbits.

The coat of the rabbits is a good indication of health. A dry, dull, harsh,staring or patchy coat indicates that something is wrong with your rabbit. As leek, glossy, lustrous coat with its natural bloom indicates it's well being. Loose hairs indicate that the rabbit is molting,which is of course perfectly natural, but scurf should not be present.

The healthy rabbit is alert. Any sudden noise or movement will awaken its immediate interest. Its movements are easy and free and it does not sit huddled in a corner of the hutch.When resting it is relaxed, with its breathing even and not shallow. Adult rabbits have a respiration rate of from 30 to 55 breaths a minute, although youngsters may breathe nearly twice as rapidly. There should be no noise as the animal breathes.
The eye should be bright and bold and there should be no discharge from it, nor from any other part of the body,particularly the nostrils, mouth, vent, anus or teats, which parts should also be free from any sores.

The fleshing of the rabbit also gives indication of its health.The muscles along either side of the spine should be firm and full and the rabbit should not feel " bony". There should be no swellings which indicate cysts, abscesses or ruptures. The healthy rabbit is full of vitality and the aim of every breeder should be to keep his stock in this condition.